Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Jon Elson via cctalk]

On 11/08/2017 12:04 AM, jim stephens via cctalk wrote:



On 11/7/2017 7:53 PM, Jon Elson via cctalk wrote:


They looked like giant purple snowballs.
The droppings destroy the paint on your car, however.  
Irvine is covered with them.  There is another tree with a 
red flower that has the tendril type bloom, I couldn't 
find what they were called.  Same problem with paint.  
Maybe someone here more familiar with tree blooms might know.


Just called them red and purple trees, but did know the 
purple was the Jacaranda.


Would have loved to visit, if you come back out, let me know.
Oh, it was the wedding of my son the Marine, and was a QUITE 
busy time, indeed!  We were only out there for a few days.  
But, if time permits, and we get out there again with more 
time available, then I will likely get in contact with a few 
people.  One of these days, I might actually be allowed to 
retire, and then more time would be available to visit with 
people.


Jon

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[jim stephens via cctalk]

On 11/7/2017 7:53 PM, Jon Elson via cctalk wrote:


They looked like giant purple snowballs.
The droppings destroy the paint on your car, however.  Irvine is covered 
with them.  There is another tree with a red flower that has the tendril 
type bloom, I couldn't find what they were called.  Same problem with 
paint.  Maybe someone here more familiar with tree blooms might know.


Just called them red and purple trees, but did know the purple was the 
Jacaranda.


Would have loved to visit, if you come back out, let me know.
thanks
Jim

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Jon Elson via cctalk]

On 11/07/2017 05:47 PM, Stefan Skoglund via cctalk wrote:
A ballpen with normal inards but a outside of wood - real 
Jakkaranda (old stock from an well known swedish carpenter.)
I have no idea what Jacaranda (US spelling) looks like, but 
the trees are absolutely STUNNING when they are in bloom.
I happened to be in the Los Angeles area late this spring, 
and got to see them in that state.


They looked like giant purple snowballs.

Jon

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Stefan Skoglund via cctalk]

sön 2017-10-29 klockan 23:49 +0100 skrev Tomasz Rola via cctalk: 
> On Sun, Oct 29, 2017 at 08:43:36PM -, Dave Wade via cctalk wrote:
> > 
> > 
> > > -Original Message-
> > > From: cctalk [mailto:cctalk-boun...@classiccmp.org] On Behalf Of Tony 
> > > Duell
> > > via cctalk
> [...]
> > > 
> > > Doesn't randomly crash.
> > > Doesn't get viruses
> > > Doesn't have licence agreements
> 
> Also: no ransomware.
> 

Personally i got myself this weekend a a nice ballpen.

A ballpen with normal inards but a outside of wood - real Jakkaranda
(old stock from an well known swedish carpenter.)

> > These devices are not without problems...
> > 
> > If I use a Pen the ink leaks all over my shirt, 
> 
> > I switched to a clutch pencil and when I dropped it all the leads broke...
> 
> I have been using ballpen a lot. Problem was, when original ink holder
> ran out, the replacements I could buy were of mediocore quality. So I
> optimised and now go with disposables - like Stabilo. Also, Bic, if I
> have chance. Or anything from that shelve, I am not purist.
> 
> As of ink leaks, perhaps holding pen in some hardened case would do?
> Maybe together with notepad?
> 

The ink patron itself is a standard version (unfortunately not
Ballograf.)

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Robert Feldman via cctalk]

>From: Fred Cisin 

>Is there a reason to AVOID mentioning the Poqet?

Yes...

>The original MSRP at announcement was WAY too high, and priced it out
>of the market, but the actual/street price wasn't bad.

>Larger keyboard that the HP (which was otherwise a better deal for the
price)

True, but the HP keyborad is not that bad.

>AA batteries with long life.

Yep. HP LX is the same.

>two PCMCIA slots (before PCMCIA was officially named and standardized)

But they are pre-PCMCIA 1, so do not handle a full range of card types, such as 
CF.

>Bus connector, with a few unobtanium accessories, such as 3.5" drive.

If you want, I can send you a mask image that I made many years ago for a 
serial connector for the bus port that you can etch.

> Had LOTUS available as a ROM card!

The HP LX  has Lotus 1-2-3 in ROM.

>MS-DOS 5.00   - I learned how to write TSRs on one.

Same for the HP LX.

The main reason, apart from the non-standard PC Card slots, not to get one (and 
I have three -- one working and two non-working) is that the video cable tends 
to break where it flexes at the case hinge and it is next to impossible to 
repair it.

Bob

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Mike Stein via cctalk]

- Original Message - 
From: "Evan Koblentz via cctalk" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
To: "General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Sent: Friday, November 03, 2017 11:15 PM
Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA


>> I guess you'd also just dismiss Harlan Ellison, Woody Allen, Isaac Asimov 
>> and the dozens of other writers who prefer to use a typewriter over a modern 
>> computer as "old cranks"...
> 
> They used typewriters in the 1980s, maybe some into the 1990s, when 
> typewriters were still common. You're talking about the Model 100 which 
> is now a 34-year-old computer. Big difference.
--
It's actually one of a group of fairly unique 34-year-old and newer tablet 
computers that can be and often are updated to remedy most of the deficiencies 
of the original version while retaining the simplicity and other features that 
make it popular among some people. 

How many modern computers have a full size regular keyboard in a tablet format 
with a display that's clearly legible in bright sunlight, instant on, cheap 
batteries that last for days and can be replaced in seconds, etc. ?

Your point was that no 'real writer' in his/her right mind would use anything 
older than a last-gen laptop today; the reason Asimov et al are often mentioned 
in this context is precisely because they preferred to use typewriters when 
much more efficient technology was readily available.

I think that some creative writers value simplicity above all, with a minimum 
of distracting technology between the idea and recording it; reporters and 
journalists like yourself on the other hand have somewhat different needs such 
as instant access to research, powerful formatting tools, compatibility, 
communication and fast file transfer, etc. etc.

The bottom line is that members of both groups use what they believe is most 
effective for whatever they're doing and, whether you believe it or not, not 
all writers then and now need or want the latest technology; I find your 
suggestion that anyone who uses old technology like the M100 can not call 
themselves a 'real writer' like you somewhat insulting and elitist.

I suspect that you've been trolling anyway, so can we leave it at that?

m

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Liam Proven via cctalk]

On 4 November 2017 at 00:47, Adrian Graham via cctalk
 wrote:
>
> OK I’ll bite. Toolkit Without An Indicated Name.
>
> (my early noughties scanners proclaimed this proudly)

Close, but not quite. 3/5. :-D

-- 
Liam Proven • Profile: https://about.me/liamproven
Email: lpro...@cix.co.uk • Google Mail/Talk/Plus: lpro...@gmail.com
Twitter/Facebook/Flickr: lproven • Skype/LinkedIn/AIM/Yahoo: liamproven
UK: +44 7939-087884 • ČR/WhatsApp/Telegram/Signal: +420 702 829 053

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Evan Koblentz via cctalk]

But I didn't say *professional* writers still use M100s. I said "some 
writers", and I think the folks who self-publish stories on the 
Internet, enter writing contests, contribute to the various on-line 
magazines etc. or just write for pleasure and entertainment of friends 
and family are every bit as much 'writers' as your elite group of 'real 
writers', and some of them do indeed prefer the M100 and its cousins to 
their modern laptops and desktops for its unique features.


Oh geez. Nobody said anything about "elite" just because it's my career. 
I'd be shocked if 1 in 10,000 writers today every HEARD of the Model 
100, let alone use it. But if what you really mean is that you hang out 
with a bunch of old cranks, one or two of which call themselves writers 
and still use a Model 100, then I guess that's true. :)



As Bill Loguidice observed in a thread elsewhere about your opinionated 
post, "...there really is no true modern equivalent to what the M100 
series can do", especially when equipped with modern multi-MB RAM and 
storage expansions, USB, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity options, 
multiple tools and programs instantly accessible from ROM etc., etc.


Bill L. is a good friend of mine and I'd happily debate him on this. The 
answer is: Chromebook. Turn it on, boots just about instantly, runs on 
all day on a single charge, has an awesome offline text editor 
available, light as a feather, and starts around $200. I love mine.




A little before your time of course...


?? I'm in my 40s.

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Evan Koblentz via cctalk]

I guess you'd also just dismiss Harlan Ellison, Woody Allen, Isaac Asimov and the dozens 
of other writers who prefer to use a typewriter over a modern computer as "old 
cranks"...


They used typewriters in the 1980s, maybe some into the 1990s, when 
typewriters were still common. You're talking about the Model 100 which 
is now a 34-year-old computer. Big difference.

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Adrian Graham via cctalk]

> On 3 Nov 2017, at 23:21, Liam Proven via cctalk  wrote:
> 
> On 3 November 2017 at 22:53, Fred Cisin via cctalk
>  wrote:
> 
>> Exactly!
>> 
>> But, they sometimes try to convince us that it means "Personal Computer
>> Memory Card Instustry Association", which is far less credible
> 
> OK, next, for 2 points. What does TWAIN stand for? No conferring or
> consulting research materials.
> 

OK I’ll bite. Toolkit Without An Indicated Name.

(my early noughties scanners proclaimed this proudly)

> -- 
> Liam Proven • Profile: https://about.me/liamproven
> Email: lpro...@cix.co.uk • Google Mail/Talk/Plus: lpro...@gmail.com
> Twitter/Facebook/Flickr: lproven • Skype/LinkedIn/AIM/Yahoo: liamproven
> UK: +44 7939-087884 • ČR/WhatsApp/Telegram/Signal: +420 702 829 053

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Sam O'nella via cctalk]

Lol that's indeed the one. I had no idea it was same era though. I think i was 
looking at one years ago as an option to document my collection and serial 
numbers. I realized despite the cool factor, i would be putting my faith in 
that system with no back-up and less ability to export elsewhere so never 
followed through with it.
 Original message From: Fred Cisin via cctalk 
<cctalk@classiccmp.org> Date: 11/3/17  10:52 PM  (GMT-06:00) To: "General 
Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org> Subject: Re: 
looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA 
On Fri, 3 Nov 2017, Sam O'nella via cctalk wrote:
> I could have sworn there was a newer black colored m100 type system that 
> someone was selling a bunch of on ebay. Iirc they were calling it the 
> tandy killer and i thougbt it was a "slate".

Convergent Technologies "Workslate".

sexy machine
Far from a killer.
Unless you are one who defines spreadsheet as "killing" word processor.


Take a look at the Epson Geneva PX-8.  CP/M.

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Fred Cisin via cctalk]

On Fri, 3 Nov 2017, Sam O'nella via cctalk wrote:
I could have sworn there was a newer black colored m100 type system that 
someone was selling a bunch of on ebay. Iirc they were calling it the 
tandy killer and i thougbt it was a "slate".


Convergent Technologies "Workslate".

sexy machine
Far from a killer.
Unless you are one who defines spreadsheet as "killing" word processor.


Take a look at the Epson Geneva PX-8.  CP/M.

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Sam O'nella via cctalk]

I could have sworn there was a newer black colored m100 type system that 
someone was selling a bunch of on ebay. Iirc they were calling it the tandy 
killer and i thougbt it was a "slate".
I did forget about the m100 pc expansion though (price is always higher than 
desirable). But best of both worlds. Super portable m100 and plug it in at desk 
ams have a monitor, memory expansion and dual disk drive. Always wanted to find 
one for the right price.
The poqet is also a great mention for compatability in a palmtop.  I think the 
bad part is all these great choices also have higher prices for their 
usability.  You sort of "need" the expansions on the poqet.  
Back to the hp 200lx standard (small plug) but sorta easy to make a serial 
cable and use as a termial also.
That's why we only find the lesser units and these all hover over 100.:-(
null

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Mike Stein via cctalk]

- Original Message - 
From: "Evan Koblentz via cctalk" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
To: "drlegendre ." <drlegen...@gmail.com>; "Liam Proven" <lpro...@gmail.com>; 
"General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Sent: Friday, November 03, 2017 2:24 PM
Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA


>> Hey, TRS-80 M100 rocks! I've got several, and they all work perfectly to 
>> this day. Built by Kyocera, who isn't known for making junk.
> 
> I agree, just not with the nutty claim that real writers still use them 
> as modern tools. That was an urban legend with maybe some tiny grain of 
> truth 25 years ago.

Well, if you're defining 'writer' as "a professional full-time journalist" 
whose main concerns are deadlines, word counts, editors' demands etc. and who 
has to be connected to the Internet every second then you're probably correct 
when it comes to usage today, although I wouldn't be surprised if some do use 
an obsolete device for jotting down ideas and notes as the OP wants to do.

But I didn't say *professional* writers still use M100s. I said "some writers", 
and I think the folks who self-publish stories on the Internet, enter writing 
contests, contribute to the various on-line magazines etc. or just write for 
pleasure and entertainment of friends and family are every bit as much 
'writers' as your elite group of 'real writers', and some of them do indeed 
prefer the M100 and its cousins to their modern laptops and desktops for its 
unique features.

As Bill Loguidice observed in a thread elsewhere about your opinionated post, 
"...there really is no true modern equivalent to what the M100 series can do", 
especially when equipped with modern multi-MB RAM and storage expansions, USB, 
WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity options, multiple tools and programs instantly 
accessible from ROM etc., etc.

> "It was an urban legend in the 1990s that a handful of old farts in the 
> entirely sportswriting industry (thousands of writers overall) may 
"still" be using their Model 100s."

How many in a 'handful'? Perhaps not many in the 90s but they were certainly 
popular with journalists in the 80s; a few years ago I chatted for a while with 
a British professional full-time motorsport journalist who did indeed use an 
M100 for composing and uploading, as did quite a few of his fellow journalists 
at the time. Wikipedia and Infoworld: 

"Tandy stated that the Model 100's sales "have only been moderate", and an 
InfoWorld columnist later claimed that "it was only journalists" who had been 
buying it. The system's popularity with journalists, however, probably helped 
Radio Shack improve the company's poor reputation with the press and in the 
industry."

A little before your time of course...

But despite (or because of) your use of rude words like 'nutty' and 'BS' you 
have provided a few chuckles for the folks in the user groups(s) who are or 
know writers who do in fact use M100s and similar devices.

They just may know more about who uses them today and for what than you presume 
to know..

m

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Ed via cctalk]

In days of  old  would  use one  with a  50  ft  ribbon cable as a 
'portable' console  fro one of my hp 2000  systems I  would  just  rag it 
around to 
wherever I was in the  Computer Room.
or into  the front office  west of the computer room as  the   back of  the 
2000 was against  that  wall. In  those  days seemed  so amazing  to do so!
Ed#
 
 
 
 
 
In a message dated 11/3/2017 10:57:23 A.M. US Mountain Standard Time,  
cctalk@classiccmp.org writes:

Hey,  TRS-80 M100 rocks! I've got several, and they all work perfectly to
this  day. Built by Kyocera, who isn't known for making junk..

The 30+ hr.  battery life alone is enough to earn them a high rating, and
they have a  built-in terminal program. I've used them to control headless
Linux boxes  several times via serial port. I believe they do 9600 or
possibly  19200.

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Evan Koblentz via cctalk]

Hey, TRS-80 M100 rocks! I've got several, and they all work perfectly to 
this day. Built by Kyocera, who isn't known for making junk.


I agree, just not with the nutty claim that real writers still use them 
as modern tools. That was an urban legend with maybe some tiny grain of 
truth 25 years ago.

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Warner Losh via cctalk]

On Fri, Nov 3, 2017 at 5:21 PM, Liam Proven via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> On 3 November 2017 at 22:53, Fred Cisin via cctalk
>  wrote:
>
> > Exactly!
> >
> > But, they sometimes try to convince us that it means "Personal Computer
> > Memory Card Instustry Association", which is far less credible
>
> OK, next, for 2 points. What does TWAIN stand for? No conferring or
> consulting research materials.


It's the initials from the French name for "Standard Scanner Interface" :)

Warner

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Liam Proven via cctalk]

On 3 November 2017 at 22:53, Fred Cisin via cctalk
 wrote:

> Exactly!
>
> But, they sometimes try to convince us that it means "Personal Computer
> Memory Card Instustry Association", which is far less credible

OK, next, for 2 points. What does TWAIN stand for? No conferring or
consulting research materials.

-- 
Liam Proven • Profile: https://about.me/liamproven
Email: lpro...@cix.co.uk • Google Mail/Talk/Plus: lpro...@gmail.com
Twitter/Facebook/Flickr: lproven • Skype/LinkedIn/AIM/Yahoo: liamproven
UK: +44 7939-087884 • ČR/WhatsApp/Telegram/Signal: +420 702 829 053

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[jim stephens via cctalk]

On 11/3/2017 2:20 PM, Fred Cisin via cctalk wrote:

Is there a reason to AVOID mentioning the Poqet?
There is one and two accessories for sale right now.  I'd forgotten 
about it till I stumbled over it searching for other stuff.


POQET-PC-Prime-model-PQ0181-SN-01817766
https://www.ebay.com/itm/202096438151

POQET-serial-port-adapter-PQ-0571-with-BlackBox-serial-port-crossover-switch
https://www.ebay.com/itm/202096456575

POQET-Parallel-Port-Cable-model-PQ-0572
https://www.ebay.com/itm/202096426280

The seller has split up the sales, not a good thing, I'm thinking. Seems 
like an all or none sort of thing.  It's up higher now that I'd buy, but 
I was reluctant with the parts in separate auctions.


thanks
Jim

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Fred Cisin via cctalk]

On Fri, 3 Nov 2017, drlegendre . wrote:

PCMCIA... People Can't Memorize Computer Industry Acronyms?


Exactly!

But, they sometimes try to convince us that it means "Personal Computer 
Memory Card Instustry Association", which is far less credible

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[drlegendre . via cctalk]

PCMCIA... People Can't Memorize Computer Industry Acronyms?

On Fri, Nov 3, 2017 at 4:20 PM, Fred Cisin via cctalk  wrote:

> Is there a reason to AVOID mentioning the Poqet?
>
> The original MSRP at announcement was WAY too high, and priced it out of
> the market, but the actual/street price wasn't bad.
>
> Larger keyboard that the HP (which was otherwise a better deal for the
> price)
> AA batteries with long life.
> two PCMCIA slots (before PCMCIA was officially named and standardized)
> Bus connector, with a few unobtanium accessories, such as 3.5" drive.
> Had LOTUS available as a ROM card!
> MS-DOS 5.00   - I learned how to write TSRs on one.
>

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Fred Cisin via cctalk]

Is there a reason to AVOID mentioning the Poqet?

The original MSRP at announcement was WAY too high, and priced it out 
of the market, but the actual/street price wasn't bad.


Larger keyboard that the HP (which was otherwise a better deal for the 
price)

AA batteries with long life.
two PCMCIA slots (before PCMCIA was officially named and standardized)
Bus connector, with a few unobtanium accessories, such as 3.5" drive.
Had LOTUS available as a ROM card!
MS-DOS 5.00   - I learned how to write TSRs on one.

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[drlegendre . via cctalk]

Hey, TRS-80 M100 rocks! I've got several, and they all work perfectly to
this day. Built by Kyocera, who isn't known for making junk..

The 30+ hr. battery life alone is enough to earn them a high rating, and
they have a built-in terminal program. I've used them to control headless
Linux boxes several times via serial port. I believe they do 9600 or
possibly 19200.

If anyone is still in want of a PDA, I have a very nice Palm IIIxe w/
cradle that should have a decent home. It's already had the ROM flashed to
the newest supported version. Prefer trade for C-64 stuff.

On Fri, Nov 3, 2017 at 3:36 AM, Liam Proven via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> On 3 November 2017 at 01:03, Evan Koblentz via cctalk
>  wrote:
> >
> > BS.
> >
> > I've been a professional full-time journalist for 20 years. No one in
> their
> > right mind is using anything older than a last-gen laptop. Maybe two
> > generations if they're poor like me.
>
> Not full-time, but still a paid scribbler for everything from PC Mag to
> MacUser.
>
> In this century, I have written columns on a Mac Classic II (in the
> 21st century) and on an early-1990s 386sx laptop under WordPerfect
> 5.1. I have toted a Thinkpad Butterfly internationally, repeatedly. I
> am currently building a bootable Live USB with PC-DOS 7.1 and MS Word
> 6 for DOS as a distraction-free writing tool.
>
> Yeah, some people totally do. Weirdos, probably, but yes.
>
> And I am typing this on an IBM Model M (made 1994-05-06) which is
> attached to my Core i5 Thinkpad X220, bought used in January for £150,
> which is my newest and most powerful laptop. In fact probably my
> newest computer of any kind.
>
> --
> Liam Proven • Profile: https://about.me/liamproven
> Email: lpro...@cix.co.uk • Google Mail/Talk/Plus: lpro...@gmail.com
> Twitter/Facebook/Flickr: lproven • Skype/LinkedIn/AIM/Yahoo: liamproven
> UK: +44 7939-087884 • ČR/WhatsApp/Telegram/Signal: +420 702 829 053
>

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Liam Proven via cctalk]

On 3 November 2017 at 01:03, Evan Koblentz via cctalk
 wrote:
>
> BS.
>
> I've been a professional full-time journalist for 20 years. No one in their
> right mind is using anything older than a last-gen laptop. Maybe two
> generations if they're poor like me.

Not full-time, but still a paid scribbler for everything from PC Mag to MacUser.

In this century, I have written columns on a Mac Classic II (in the
21st century) and on an early-1990s 386sx laptop under WordPerfect
5.1. I have toted a Thinkpad Butterfly internationally, repeatedly. I
am currently building a bootable Live USB with PC-DOS 7.1 and MS Word
6 for DOS as a distraction-free writing tool.

Yeah, some people totally do. Weirdos, probably, but yes.

And I am typing this on an IBM Model M (made 1994-05-06) which is
attached to my Core i5 Thinkpad X220, bought used in January for £150,
which is my newest and most powerful laptop. In fact probably my
newest computer of any kind.

-- 
Liam Proven • Profile: https://about.me/liamproven
Email: lpro...@cix.co.uk • Google Mail/Talk/Plus: lpro...@gmail.com
Twitter/Facebook/Flickr: lproven • Skype/LinkedIn/AIM/Yahoo: liamproven
UK: +44 7939-087884 • ČR/WhatsApp/Telegram/Signal: +420 702 829 053

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Evan Koblentz via cctalk]

I'll forward your supercilious and ill-informed comment to the folks I know who 
do in fact use an M100; I'm sure they will be amused...


BS.

I've been a professional full-time journalist for 20 years. No one in 
their right mind is using anything older than a last-gen laptop. Maybe 
two generations if they're poor like me.




m


- Original Message -
From: "Evan Koblentz via cctalk" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
To: "General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2017 3:47 PM
Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA



Radio Shack M100 ... still used by some writers for the very reason you mention.


That is not true.

It was an urban legend in the 1990s that a handful of old farts in the
entirely sportswriting industry (thousands of writers overall) may
"still" be using their Model 100s. I'm sure if you looked hard enough
some of them still used typewriters too.

In 2017? It's ridiculous to even speculate.

Re: BBS software was Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[tom sparks via cctalk]

On 03/11/17 03:56, Liam Proven wrote:


On 31 October 2017 at 23:02, tom sparks via cctalk
 wrote:

I am looking for BBS software to run on my linux computer that i can use to
down/up-load stuff for my psion 5mx

The 5MX can talk IRDA, you know, which might be easier but is
line-of-sight only.

This may be informative:

http://www.tldp.org/HOWTO/pdf/Psion-HOWTO.pdf

Also see:

http://palmtop.cosi.com.pl/2012/12/28/psion-linux-pc-and-a-cable/


I'm look at the reverse case psion to PC

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Mike Stein via cctalk]

I'll forward your supercilious and ill-informed comment to the folks I know who 
do in fact use an M100; I'm sure they will be amused...

m


- Original Message - 
From: "Evan Koblentz via cctalk" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
To: "General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2017 3:47 PM
Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA


>> Radio Shack M100 ... still used by some writers for the very reason you 
>> mention.
> 
> That is not true.
> 
> It was an urban legend in the 1990s that a handful of old farts in the 
> entirely sportswriting industry (thousands of writers overall) may 
> "still" be using their Model 100s. I'm sure if you looked hard enough 
> some of them still used typewriters too.
> 
> In 2017? It's ridiculous to even speculate.

Re: BBS software was Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Liam Proven via cctalk]

On 31 October 2017 at 23:02, tom sparks via cctalk
 wrote:
> I am looking for BBS software to run on my linux computer that i can use to
> down/up-load stuff for my psion 5mx

The 5MX can talk IRDA, you know, which might be easier but is
line-of-sight only.

This may be informative:

http://www.tldp.org/HOWTO/pdf/Psion-HOWTO.pdf

Also see:

http://palmtop.cosi.com.pl/2012/12/28/psion-linux-pc-and-a-cable/

-- 
Liam Proven • Profile: https://about.me/liamproven
Email: lpro...@cix.co.uk • Google Mail/Talk/Plus: lpro...@gmail.com
Twitter/Facebook/Flickr: lproven • Skype/LinkedIn/AIM/Yahoo: liamproven
UK: +44 7939-087884 • ČR/WhatsApp/Telegram/Signal: +420 702 829 053

Re: BBS software was Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[geneb via cctalk]

On Wed, 1 Nov 2017, Warner Losh via cctalk wrote:


On Wed, Nov 1, 2017 at 12:29 PM, Ethan via cctalk 
wrote:


I'd get a RS232toWIFI dongle, they're cheap and easy to make a connection

via simple terminal software to an outside telnet target.



I don't think the RS232 to WIFI dongles from the one guy are often
unavailable. I think the creator hand solders them in small batches or
something.



The ESP 8266's are available a dime a dozen and often have the proper
firmware burned into them. At worst, you have to put a RS-232 DB-xx
connector on and maybe a level shifter (depending on the ESP board you
have, though most don't have them)...

...and a pair of MAX232's if you plan on connecting it to real hardware 
equipped with an RS-232 port.


I'd suggest starting with a NodeMCU. :)

g.

--
Proud owner of F-15C 80-0007
http://www.f15sim.com - The only one of its kind.
http://www.diy-cockpits.org/coll - Go Collimated or Go Home.
Some people collect things for a hobby.  Geeks collect hobbies.

ScarletDME - The red hot Data Management Environment
A Multi-Value database for the masses, not the classes.
http://scarlet.deltasoft.com - Get it _today_!

Re: BBS software was Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[geneb via cctalk]

On Wed, 1 Nov 2017, Ethan via cctalk wrote:


I'd get a RS232toWIFI dongle, they're cheap and easy to make a connection
via simple terminal software to an outside telnet target.


I don't think the RS232 to WIFI dongles from the one guy are often 
unavailable. I think the creator hand solders them in small batches or 
something.



It's a great unit for doing "dial-out" only.  Forget incoming though.

g.

--
Proud owner of F-15C 80-0007
http://www.f15sim.com - The only one of its kind.
http://www.diy-cockpits.org/coll - Go Collimated or Go Home.
Some people collect things for a hobby.  Geeks collect hobbies.

ScarletDME - The red hot Data Management Environment
A Multi-Value database for the masses, not the classes.
http://scarlet.deltasoft.com - Get it _today_!

Re: BBS software was Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Warner Losh via cctalk]

On Wed, Nov 1, 2017 at 12:29 PM, Ethan via cctalk 
wrote:

> I'd get a RS232toWIFI dongle, they're cheap and easy to make a connection
>> via simple terminal software to an outside telnet target.
>>
>
> I don't think the RS232 to WIFI dongles from the one guy are often
> unavailable. I think the creator hand solders them in small batches or
> something.
>

The ESP 8266's are available a dime a dozen and often have the proper
firmware burned into them. At worst, you have to put a RS-232 DB-xx
connector on and maybe a level shifter (depending on the ESP board you
have, though most don't have them)...

Warner

Re: BBS software was Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Ethan via cctalk]

I'd get a RS232toWIFI dongle, they're cheap and easy to make a connection
via simple terminal software to an outside telnet target.


I don't think the RS232 to WIFI dongles from the one guy are often 
unavailable. I think the creator hand solders them in small batches or 
something.


- EThan


--
: Ethan O'Toole

Re: BBS software was Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[william degnan via cctalk]

I'd get a RS232toWIFI dongle, they're cheap and easy to make a connection
via simple terminal software to an outside telnet target.

On Tue, Oct 31, 2017 at 6:02 PM, tom sparks via cctalk <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:

> I am looking for BBS software to run on my linux computer that i can use
> to down/up-load stuff for my psion 5mx
>
> I have 2 xbees[1] to make the link
>
> PS: I know there is pswin[2]
>
> [1]: they are radio modems, see https://www.sparkfun.com/pages/xbee_guide
> [2]: http://psion.info/GJ5/psiwin233_32.html
>
>
>  Forwarded Message ----
> Subject:    Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA
> Date:   Mon, 30 Oct 2017 06:38:23 +1000
> From:   tom sparks <tomasparks...@gmail.com>
> To: Mike Stein <mhs.st...@gmail.com>, General Discussion: On-Topic
> and Off-Topic Posts <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
>
>
> 
> I want download all the data before I go and upload it when I return or
> use a "dial-up" connection[^1]
> 
> [^1]: I am really unsure if I want to go down the TCP/IP path
>

BBS software was Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[tom sparks via cctalk]

I am looking for BBS software to run on my linux computer that i can use 
to down/up-load stuff for my psion 5mx


I have 2 xbees[1] to make the link

PS: I know there is pswin[2]

[1]: they are radio modems, see https://www.sparkfun.com/pages/xbee_guide
[2]: http://psion.info/GJ5/psiwin233_32.html


 Forwarded Message 
Subject:Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA
Date:   Mon, 30 Oct 2017 06:38:23 +1000
From:   tom sparks <tomasparks...@gmail.com>
To: 	Mike Stein <mhs.st...@gmail.com>, General Discussion: On-Topic and 
Off-Topic Posts <cctalk@classiccmp.org>




I want download all the data before I go and upload it when I return or 
use a "dial-up" connection[^1]


[^1]: I am really unsure if I want to go down the TCP/IP path

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Sam O'nella via cctalk]

It could also be from the popular article about George RR Martin using a 
vintage dos computer with wordstar 4.0 for his writing rig. Similar to some 
other authors I've heard look for a machine that doesn't offer distractions.
My own mis-remembrance though for some reason I thought it was a trs-80 model 
4p but I'm not finding specifics in the quick google search.
 Original message From: Evan Koblentz via cctalk 
<cctalk@classiccmp.org> Date: 10/30/17  2:47 PM  (GMT-06:00) To: "General 
Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org> Subject: Re: 
looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA 
> Radio Shack M100 ... still used by some writers for the very reason you 
> mention.

That is not true.

It was an urban legend in the 1990s that a handful of old farts in the 
entirely sportswriting industry (thousands of writers overall) may 
"still" be using their Model 100s. I'm sure if you looked hard enough 
some of them still used typewriters too.

In 2017? It's ridiculous to even speculate.

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Evan Koblentz via cctalk]

Radio Shack M100 ... still used by some writers for the very reason you mention.


That is not true.

It was an urban legend in the 1990s that a handful of old farts in the 
entirely sportswriting industry (thousands of writers overall) may 
"still" be using their Model 100s. I'm sure if you looked hard enough 
some of them still used typewriters too.


In 2017? It's ridiculous to even speculate.

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[tom sparks via cctalk]

On 31/10/17 00:34, Liam Proven wrote:

On 30 October 2017 at 00:57, tom sparks via cctalk
 wrote:


cant find the Gateway HandBook on ebay :(
if wanted the GPD Pocket i could buy these
 or  GDP Win
Toshiba Libretto size issues

Your quoting is broken. It took 3 goes to type this because I couldn't
find your actual reply.


I checked cctalk mail archive I could not find where my text quoting is 
broken[1]




The Pandora is a gaming toy. It's got a terrible keyboard.

The GDP is one device, it just comes with either Windows or Ubuntu
installed. I think even the specs are the same.


I was say that the "modern" GPD pocket version sucks compared to the 
older versions.


if i was designing the next gen, i would start of with a kindle keyboard[2],
clamshell it, then make it smaller


The difference between modern things and the Psion is of course
battery life. A Psion 5/5mx ran for months on a pair of AAs. A
mini-laptop runs for a few hours.



[1]: http://www.classiccmp.org/pipermail/cctalk/2017-October/035578.html
[2]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amazon_Kindle#Kindle_Keyboard

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Robert Feldman via cctalk]

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Liam Proven via cctalk]

On 30 October 2017 at 00:57, tom sparks via cctalk
 wrote:

>
> cant find the Gateway HandBook on ebay :(
> if wanted the GPD Pocket i could buy these
>  or  GDP Win
> Toshiba Libretto size issues

Your quoting is broken. It took 3 goes to type this because I couldn't
find your actual reply.

The Pandora is a gaming toy. It's got a terrible keyboard.

The GDP is one device, it just comes with either Windows or Ubuntu
installed. I think even the specs are the same.

The difference between modern things and the Psion is of course
battery life. A Psion 5/5mx ran for months on a pair of AAs. A
mini-laptop runs for a few hours.

-- 
Liam Proven • Profile: https://about.me/liamproven
Email: lpro...@cix.co.uk • Google Mail/Talk/Plus: lpro...@gmail.com
Twitter/Facebook/Flickr: lproven • Skype/LinkedIn/AIM/Yahoo: liamproven
UK: +44 7939-087884 • ČR/WhatsApp/Telegram/Signal: +420 702 829 053

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[tom sparks via cctalk]

On 30/10/17 09:41, Sam O'nella wrote:

I'll add a few more problem specs than answers but the down side of a 
lot of devices is lack of backlit screen so working in a dark space 
can be a problem, 

same issues with e-ink

and I'd be quite interested to see real battery life reviews.




 So many devices that can work only last a few hours on battery. Could 
be age issues but that's what I've accepted as a reason not to collect 
too many handheld devices. Proprietary batteries and most are dead.


Do you want keyboard or is palm like writing acceptable?

Do you mean thumb typing, I can learn that

On the bright side, despite battery age palms are easy to find and 
relatively cheap. Most are at goodwill because of obsolescence not 
because theyre broken.  I find them all the time for $10.

thanks for the 2nd hand shops tip

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[tom sparks via cctalk]

On 30/10/17 07:38, systems_glitch wrote:
You might check out the Gateway HandBook series -- there's a 286 and 
486 version. I've got the 486 version, it'll run DOS/Win31/Win95 and 
Linux/*BSD distros that support the 486. Suspend/resume is instant, 
there's an internal battery to carry you through battery pack hot 
swaps, and you can gut the old pack and restuff with modern cells. 
I've been meaning to build a USB based pack replacement for mine, 
using one or two 18650 cells, a charge controller, and a load share 
switch IC. Gets around the problem of needing the Gateway charger, 
which mine didn't come with :)


I've got one of the above-mentioned GPD Pocket computers, it's fully 
modern and comes with Windows 10 or Ubuntu. I've got mine running 
Slackware, but I haven't had much time to mess around with it in the 
past few months.


In between the Handbook and the GPD Pocket, there's the Toshiba 
Libretto line. There were a number of models, I've only ever had 
Libretto 110CT machines, which are 233 MHz Pentium-MMX with up to 64 
MB RAM. These run up to Windows 2000 just fine, and do fine with a 
modernish CLI Linux/*BSD (though some distros are starting to drop 
i586, and I've heard some distros will be dropping 32-bit Intel 
altogether soon). Keyboard isn't as good as the Handbook, but it's 
much better than the DOS palmtops I've used.


Thanks,
Jonathan

cant find the Gateway HandBook on ebay :(
if wanted the GPD Pocket i could buy these 
<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pandora_(console)> or  GDP Win

Toshiba Libretto size issues



On Sun, Oct 29, 2017 at 4:38 PM, tom sparks via cctalk 
<cctalk@classiccmp.org <mailto:cctalk@classiccmp.org>> wrote:


On 30/10/17 04:14, Mike Stein wrote:

- Original Message -
From: "tom sparks" <tomasparks...@gmail.com
<mailto:tomasparks...@gmail.com>>
To: "Mike Stein" <mhs.st...@gmail.com
<mailto:mhs.st...@gmail.com>>; "General Discussion: On-Topic
and Off-Topic Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org
<mailto:cctalk@classiccmp.org>>
    Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2017 1:39 PM
Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA


On 30/10/17 01:22, Mike Stein wrote:

Radio Shack M100 (if you've got a large pocket); still
used by some writers for the very reason you mention.

m

I did look at M100 and clones, but I ruled them out, as
could not use
them without extra hardware to get some DOS-like filesystem

---

The internal file system isn't an issue for most people; the
max ~30KB RAM disk (and file) size can be a limiting factor,

30KB is a limiting factor me, as I dont know how many text files i
want to store

  but like many similar units you transfer files in and out
via built-in utilities and an RS232 cable or $10.00 bluetooth
dongle to whatever file system is at the other end including
Android and the other main OSs.

I dont want to bring another computing device with me to act as
storage,
I want download all the data before I go and upload it when I
return or use a "dial-up" connection[^1]


But as you mentioned, if you otherwise like the unit and can
live with an 8x40 (albeit large and very legible) screen,
there are various modern expansion options available,
including CP/M emulation (under active development).

What makes it still a popular unit are the character size and
legibility, the excellent keyboard and the long 4xAA cell
battery life; the otherwise identical T102 is a thinner and
lighter version.

the final nail in the coffin for m100 is the size of my go bag (
23 * 16 * 1.5cm)

m
-

[^1]: I am really unsure if I want to go down the TCP/IP path

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Mark Linimon via cctalk]

I'll be happy to give away my Palm collection to anyone who will pay
shipping from Austin, TX, USA.

No, they don't work :-)  But there's a Palm original, Palm III, and
Palm VII.

(and yeah, I would, uh, kinda have to find them.)

The only thing I would ask in return is if you get them going, please
do a factory reset.  I assume they still have my data.

mcl

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Sam O'nella via cctalk]

I'll add a few more problem specs than answers but the down side of a lot of 
devices is lack of backlit screen so working in a dark space can be a problem, 
and I'd be quite interested to see real battery life reviews. 
 So many devices that can work only last a few hours on battery. Could be age 
issues but that's what I've accepted as a reason not to collect too many 
handheld devices. Proprietary batteries and most are dead.
Do you want keyboard or is palm like writing acceptable? On the bright side, 
despite battery age palms are easy to find and relatively cheap. Most are at 
goodwill because of obsolescence not because theyre broken.  I find them all 
the time for $10.
null

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Tomasz Rola via cctalk]

On Sun, Oct 29, 2017 at 08:43:36PM -, Dave Wade via cctalk wrote:
> 
> 
> > -Original Message-
> > From: cctalk [mailto:cctalk-boun...@classiccmp.org] On Behalf Of Tony Duell
> > via cctalk
[...]
> > 
> > Doesn't randomly crash.
> > Doesn't get viruses
> > Doesn't have licence agreements

Also: no ransomware.

> These devices are not without problems...
> 
> If I use a Pen the ink leaks all over my shirt, 

> I switched to a clutch pencil and when I dropped it all the leads broke...

I have been using ballpen a lot. Problem was, when original ink holder
ran out, the replacements I could buy were of mediocore quality. So I
optimised and now go with disposables - like Stabilo. Also, Bic, if I
have chance. Or anything from that shelve, I am not purist.

As of ink leaks, perhaps holding pen in some hardened case would do?
Maybe together with notepad?

> .. the pad has limited capacity, and like an iPad is very
> susceptible to fluid damage and having little monetary value I have
> been known to leave it on the train/bus/plain and when I do I can't
> remotely erase the critical data on it...

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voynich_manuscript

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Undeciphered_historical_codes_and_ciphers

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cryptonomicon#Pontifex_Cipher

Those too have limitations, but should be above the height of average
pickpocket/passerby. One of the limitations is, one requires quite a
bit of practice to do them in memory.

OTOH, when applied to short sequences of words, should be quite
strong, from what I have read.

When memorizing sequence of digits on paper, I could write a sentence
of words of proper length, or have many words of diffent length all
over the page and memorize the place of those which I need (just
guessing, will have to try it one day).

-- 
Regards,
Tomasz Rola

--
** A C programmer asked whether computer had Buddha's nature.  **
** As the answer, master did "rm -rif" on the programmer's home**
** directory. And then the C programmer became enlightened...  **
** **
** Tomasz Rola  mailto:tomasz_r...@bigfoot.com **

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Mike Stein via cctalk]

> the final nail in the coffin for m100 is the size of my go bag ( 23 * 16 * 
> 1.5cm)
--
Definitely a deal breaker ;-)

But yes, without a memory expansion of some sort the limited RAM size can be 
frustrating; if you don't mind smaller text sizes or shorter battery life then 
there are many alternatives, both vintage and modern.

m
  - Original Message - 
  From: tom sparks 
  To: Mike Stein ; General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts 
  Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2017 4:38 PM
  Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA


  On 30/10/17 04:14, Mike Stein wrote:


- Original Message - 
From: "tom sparks" <tomasparks...@gmail.com>
To: "Mike Stein" <mhs.st...@gmail.com>; "General Discussion: On-Topic and 
Off-Topic Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2017 1:39 PM
Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA


On 30/10/17 01:22, Mike Stein wrote:

Radio Shack M100 (if you've got a large pocket); still used by some writers for 
the very reason you mention.

m
I did look at M100 and clones, but I ruled them out, as could not use 
them without extra hardware to get some DOS-like filesystem
--- 

The internal file system isn't an issue for most people; the max ~30KB RAM disk 
(and file) size can be a limiting factor,30KB is a limiting factor me, as I 
dont know how many text files i want to store


 but like many similar units you transfer files in and out via built-in 
utilities and an RS232 cable or $10.00 bluetooth dongle to whatever file system 
is at the other end including Android and the other main OSs.I dont want to 
bring another computing device with me to act as storage,
  I want download all the data before I go and upload it when I return or use a 
"dial-up" connection[^1]


But as you mentioned, if you otherwise like the unit and can live with an 8x40 
(albeit large and very legible) screen, there are various modern expansion 
options available, including CP/M emulation (under active development).

What makes it still a popular unit are the character size and legibility, the 
excellent keyboard and the long 4xAA cell battery life; the otherwise identical 
T102 is a thinner and lighter version.
the final nail in the coffin for m100 is the size of my go bag ( 23 * 16 * 
1.5cm)


m
- 

[^1]: I am really unsure if I want to go down the TCP/IP path

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Mike Stein via cctalk]

- Original Message - 
From: "Lawrence Woodman via cctalk" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
To: <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2017 11:53 AM
Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA


> 
> 
> On 29/10/17 15:22, Mike Stein via cctalk wrote:
>> Radio Shack M100 (if you've got a large pocket); still used by some writers 
>> for the very reason you mention.
>>
>> m
>>
>> On 29/10/17 06:01, Evan Koblentz wrote:
>>>>>> I am looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA, so I can write idea/notes
>>>>>> when I
>>>>>> am away from my computer
>>>>
> 
> I was also thinking of something a little bit bigger, such as the M100. 
> The Cambridge Z88 is an excellent machine and they are still being sold 
> new in box.
> 
>  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cambridge_Z88
> 
> Lorry

Well, as I said if you don't mind smaller text and buying a slightly larger bag 
there are quite a few pretty nice word processors out there, and most of them 
have either RS232, USB or wireless transfer capability built in. If you're 
lucky you might even find one with its own bag ;-)

For example there's the NTS Dream Writer series; e.g.:
http://www.ebay.ca/itm/NTS-Computer-DreamWriter-T400-IR-Word-Processor-TESTED-/380218171277

or the Alphasmarts; e.g.:
http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Lot-2-AlphaSmart-Dana-Portable-Word-Processor/222696441392?hash=item33d9be0630:g:OggAAOSwH09ZKavH

(No connection to seller)

m

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[tom sparks via cctalk]

On 30/10/17 01:22, Mike Stein wrote:


Radio Shack M100 (if you've got a large pocket); still used by some writers for 
the very reason you mention.

m
I did look at M100 and clones, but I ruled them out, as could not use 
them without extra hardware to get some DOS-like filesystem




- Original Message -
From: "tom sparks via cctalk" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
To: "General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2017 6:05 AM
Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA




On 29/10/17 06:01, Evan Koblentz wrote:

I am looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA, so I can write idea/notes
when I
am away from my computer

Hi Tom.

Welcome to 1997. :-)



the [Psion 3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_3) and [Psion
5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_5) look like good
options,
but i read about the hinge/screen issues

I am leaning more towards the Psion 5 because of the easy of getting
accessories,
but it has more things to break

but I am wounding about other options?

"Wondering"? :-)


Tom - Here's the dilemma. The pocket-sized DOS computers (HP-200,
Atari Portfolio, etc.) are too small for their keyboards to be useful.
The larger ones (all the Windows CE stuff that Liam mentioned, along
with the awesome Psion Series 7/Psion Netbook) have good keyboards and
screens, but they're fragile and kind of exotic for modern purposes.

For me, the solution is modern produts. I use a high-end Android
smartphone and a low-end Chromebook. Either one is excellent when I
need a quick/simple note-taking device. With the phone I use the
"Google Keep" app for quite notes/lists. With the Chromebook I use an
offline app just called "Text" because it's extremely fast and has
good options.

I want something that has anti-procrastinate features (no internet, no
videos, no mp3s, etc),
long battery life (40+ hours),
easy replaceable batteries

PS: I am adding it to my "off-line" gobag also

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[tom sparks via cctalk]

On 30/10/17 04:14, Mike Stein wrote:


- Original Message -
From: "tom sparks" <tomasparks...@gmail.com>
To: "Mike Stein" <mhs.st...@gmail.com>; "General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic 
Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2017 1:39 PM
Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA



On 30/10/17 01:22, Mike Stein wrote:


Radio Shack M100 (if you've got a large pocket); still used by some writers for 
the very reason you mention.

m

I did look at M100 and clones, but I ruled them out, as could not use
them without extra hardware to get some DOS-like filesystem

---

The internal file system isn't an issue for most people; the max ~30KB RAM disk 
(and file) size can be a limiting factor,
30KB is a limiting factor me, as I dont know how many text files i want 
to store



  but like many similar units you transfer files in and out via built-in 
utilities and an RS232 cable or $10.00 bluetooth dongle to whatever file system 
is at the other end including Android and the other main OSs.

I dont want to bring another computing device with me to act as storage,
I want download all the data before I go and upload it when I return or 
use a "dial-up" connection[^1]


But as you mentioned, if you otherwise like the unit and can live with an 8x40 
(albeit large and very legible) screen, there are various modern expansion 
options available, including CP/M emulation (under active development).

What makes it still a popular unit are the character size and legibility, the 
excellent keyboard and the long 4xAA cell battery life; the otherwise identical 
T102 is a thinner and lighter version.
the final nail in the coffin for m100 is the size of my go bag ( 23 * 16 
* 1.5cm)



m
-


[^1]: I am really unsure if I want to go down the TCP/IP path

RE: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Dave Wade via cctalk]

> -Original Message-
> From: cctalk [mailto:cctalk-boun...@classiccmp.org] On Behalf Of Tony Duell
> via cctalk
> Sent: 29 October 2017 20:15
> To: Tomasz Rola <rto...@ceti.pl>; General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-
> Topic Posts <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
> Cc: tom sparks <tomasparks...@gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA
> 
> On Sun, Oct 29, 2017 at 8:08 PM, Tomasz Rola via cctalk
> <cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:
> 
> > - no moving parts
> > - keeps working on zero volts with no problem
> > - no proprietary unrepairable circuits
> > - no worry that rohs-no-lead solder breaks
> > - no manual required
> > - repairs can be done anywhere, cheaply
> > - expansion can be done anywhere, cheaply, as long as there is
> >   stationery nearby
> > - mods can be done, and require only very few manual skills ... and
> > more...
> 
> Doesn't randomly crash.
> Doesn't get viruses
> Doesn't have licence agreements

These devices are not without problems...

If I use a Pen the ink leaks all over my shirt, 
I switched to a clutch pencil and when I dropped it all the leads broke...
.. the pad has limited capacity, and like an iPad is very susceptible to fluid 
damage and having little monetary value I have been known to leave it on the 
train/bus/plain and when I do I can't remotely erase the critical data on it... 


> 
> [...]
> 
> > In case you have not guessed yet:
> 
> [...]
> 
> > If you wonder, yes, I have the paper notebook, two even (but I think I
> 
> Ah... A Paper Aided Design system, also known as a PAD (of paper).
> 

Or a BookBook...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOXQo7nURs0

> I use one all the time...
> 
> -tony

Dave

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Tony Duell via cctalk]

On Sun, Oct 29, 2017 at 8:08 PM, Tomasz Rola via cctalk
 wrote:

> - no moving parts
> - keeps working on zero volts with no problem
> - no proprietary unrepairable circuits
> - no worry that rohs-no-lead solder breaks
> - no manual required
> - repairs can be done anywhere, cheaply
> - expansion can be done anywhere, cheaply, as long as there is
>   stationery nearby
> - mods can be done, and require only very few manual skills
> ... and more...

Doesn't randomly crash.
Doesn't get viruses
Doesn't have licence agreements

[...]

> In case you have not guessed yet:

[...]

> If you wonder, yes, I have the paper notebook, two even (but I think I

Ah... A Paper Aided Design system, also known as a PAD
(of paper).

I use one all the time...

-tony

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Tomasz Rola via cctalk]

On Sat, Oct 28, 2017 at 08:03:31PM +1000, tom sparks via cctalk wrote:
> I am looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA, so I can write idea/notes
> when I am away from my computer
> 
> the [Psion 3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_3) and
> [Psion 5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_5) look like
> good options,
> but i read about the hinge/screen issues
> 
> I am leaning more towards the Psion 5 because of the easy of getting
> accessories,
> but it has more things to break
> 
> but I am wounding about other options?

I was looking down that road and recognised what was there at the end
of it, and decided I want something else.

The way I understand it is, basically, those are proprietary
unmaintanaible units - designed for "sell and replace when broken",
maybe not as much as modern designs, but still. Getting old rather
fast. Not much options to have one's own OS on it. Not much options to
have any additional software on it - old websites died off, people
sometimes followed, sometimes went on or retired. Hence, not much
options to ask questions when I get stuck. No manuals, AFAICS.

Surface mounted electronics have not encouraged me either - albeit I
can see increasing number of DIY folks who can solder this in and out.

As of additional suggestions, some people sweared by their Palm Pilots
and later Palms.

But it boils down to buying used hw, no guarantee, and taking it with
you, jumping, shagging, pressing as you go. I would be afraid of it
dying anytime. It might last next twenty years, but this cannot be
counted on. Thus if I developed habit to depend on it, I would have to
keep alternative habit ready to depend on, too. And if so, going
straight for alternative habit would seem much more rational, wouldn't
it?

Thus I choose the alternative. Positives:

- no moving parts
- keeps working on zero volts with no problem
- no proprietary unrepairable circuits
- no worry that rohs-no-lead solder breaks
- no manual required
- repairs can be done anywhere, cheaply
- expansion can be done anywhere, cheaply, as long as there is
  stationery nearby
- mods can be done, and require only very few manual skills
... and more...

I realize my advice is a bit orthogonal to the letter and spirit of
this group, but when I choose something, I try to be serious about
it. So either the above way, or I would have to buy few more
replacements and serve as my own repair shop (time sink alert! money
sink alert!), but without manuals and fearing that there might be a
proprietary connector broken, which can be bought and transferred from
a country ten thousands km away (provided I can name it properly, so
it could be found), which might be ok if I made more shopping, but for
just one plastic part is rather excessive, which sends me back to my
selected alternative.

In case you have not guessed yet:

https://www.pinterest.com/explore/creative-journal/

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/454230312408028784/

https://www.pinterest.com/explore/organisation-ideas-planners/

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/301319031309050764/

https://www.pinterest.com/explore/bullet-journal/

https://www.pinterest.com/explore/sketch-journal/

If you wonder, yes, I have the paper notebook, two even (but I think I
would be joining them in a future - scissors, glue and more
paper). Not as creative as the ones on pinterest (some of those are
probably more "show" than "practical"), but I am slowly inventing my
own way of doing it. Preying on the web to see how other people do
this, from time to time.

HTH

-- 
Regards,
Tomasz Rola

--
** A C programmer asked whether computer had Buddha's nature.  **
** As the answer, master did "rm -rif" on the programmer's home**
** directory. And then the C programmer became enlightened...  **
** **
** Tomasz Rola  mailto:tomasz_r...@bigfoot.com **

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Liam Proven via cctalk]

On 29 October 2017 at 16:53, Lawrence Woodman via cctalk
 wrote:
>
> I was also thinking of something a little bit bigger, such as the M100.  The
> Cambridge Z88 is an excellent machine and they are still being sold new in
> box.
>
>  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cambridge_Z88

A fair point. I have one. I must send it off to Rakewell and get it
upgraded and maxed out. I think they can take 512 kB of RAM now, and
there are Flash media with a meg on.

http://www.rakewell.com/z88/z88.shtml

The OS, OZ, is still in development, remarkably.

https://sourceforge.net/p/z88/news/2016/12/cambridge-z88-rom-v47-released/

The big snag is still that it's relatively hard to get files /off/ the
things and into a modern computer.

-- 
Liam Proven • Profile: https://about.me/liamproven
Email: lpro...@cix.co.uk • Google Mail/Talk/Plus: lpro...@gmail.com
Twitter/Facebook/Flickr: lproven • Skype/LinkedIn/AIM/Yahoo: liamproven
UK: +44 7939-087884 • ČR/WhatsApp/Telegram/Signal: +420 702 829 053

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Mike Stein via cctalk]

- Original Message - 
From: "tom sparks" <tomasparks...@gmail.com>
To: "Mike Stein" <mhs.st...@gmail.com>; "General Discussion: On-Topic and 
Off-Topic Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2017 1:39 PM
Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA


> On 30/10/17 01:22, Mike Stein wrote:
> 
>> Radio Shack M100 (if you've got a large pocket); still used by some writers 
>> for the very reason you mention.
>>
>> m
> I did look at M100 and clones, but I ruled them out, as could not use 
> them without extra hardware to get some DOS-like filesystem
--- 

The internal file system isn't an issue for most people; the max ~30KB RAM disk 
(and file) size can be a limiting factor, but like many similar units you 
transfer files in and out via built-in utilities and an RS232 cable or $10.00 
bluetooth dongle to whatever file system is at the other end including Android 
and the other main OSs.

But as you mentioned, if you otherwise like the unit and can live with an 8x40 
(albeit large and very legible) screen, there are various modern expansion 
options available, including CP/M emulation (under active development).

What makes it still a popular unit are the character size and legibility, the 
excellent keyboard and the long 4xAA cell battery life; the otherwise identical 
T102 is a thinner and lighter version.

m
- 

>> - Original Message -
>> From: "tom sparks via cctalk" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
>> To: "General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts" 
>> <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
>> Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2017 6:05 AM
>> Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA
>>
>>
>>>
>>> On 29/10/17 06:01, Evan Koblentz wrote:
>>>>>> I am looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA, so I can write idea/notes
>>>>>> when I
>>>>>> am away from my computer
>>>> Hi Tom.
>>>>
>>>> Welcome to 1997. :-)
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>> the [Psion 3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_3) and [Psion
>>>>>> 5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_5) look like good
>>>>>> options,
>>>>>> but i read about the hinge/screen issues
>>>>>>
>>>>>> I am leaning more towards the Psion 5 because of the easy of getting
>>>>>> accessories,
>>>>>> but it has more things to break
>>>>>>
>>>>>> but I am wounding about other options?
>>>>> "Wondering"? :-)
>>>>
>>>> Tom - Here's the dilemma. The pocket-sized DOS computers (HP-200,
>>>> Atari Portfolio, etc.) are too small for their keyboards to be useful.
>>>> The larger ones (all the Windows CE stuff that Liam mentioned, along
>>>> with the awesome Psion Series 7/Psion Netbook) have good keyboards and
>>>> screens, but they're fragile and kind of exotic for modern purposes.
>>>>
>>>> For me, the solution is modern produts. I use a high-end Android
>>>> smartphone and a low-end Chromebook. Either one is excellent when I
>>>> need a quick/simple note-taking device. With the phone I use the
>>>> "Google Keep" app for quite notes/lists. With the Chromebook I use an
>>>> offline app just called "Text" because it's extremely fast and has
>>>> good options.
>>> I want something that has anti-procrastinate features (no internet, no
>>> videos, no mp3s, etc),
>>> long battery life (40+ hours),
>>> easy replaceable batteries
>>>
>>> PS: I am adding it to my "off-line" gobag also
>

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Mark Wickens via cctalk]

I'd second the Z88. A lot of people get put off by the keyboard but it
actually works really well, and I'm a proper mechanical keyboard snob. You
get can a proper turn of speed up on it.

Mark

On 29 Oct 2017 4:04 p.m., "Lawrence Woodman via cctalk" <
cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:



On 29/10/17 15:22, Mike Stein via cctalk wrote:

> Radio Shack M100 (if you've got a large pocket); still used by some
> writers for the very reason you mention.
>
> m
>
> On 29/10/17 06:01, Evan Koblentz wrote:
>
>> I am looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA, so I can write idea/notes
>>>>> when I
>>>>> am away from my computer
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>
I was also thinking of something a little bit bigger, such as the M100.
The Cambridge Z88 is an excellent machine and they are still being sold new
in box.

 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cambridge_Z88

Lorry

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Lawrence Woodman via cctalk]

On 29/10/17 15:22, Mike Stein via cctalk wrote:

Radio Shack M100 (if you've got a large pocket); still used by some writers for 
the very reason you mention.

m

On 29/10/17 06:01, Evan Koblentz wrote:

I am looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA, so I can write idea/notes
when I
am away from my computer




I was also thinking of something a little bit bigger, such as the M100.  
The Cambridge Z88 is an excellent machine and they are still being sold 
new in box.


 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cambridge_Z88

Lorry

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Mike Stein via cctalk]

Radio Shack M100 (if you've got a large pocket); still used by some writers for 
the very reason you mention.

m

- Original Message - 
From: "tom sparks via cctalk" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
To: "General Discussion: On-Topic and Off-Topic Posts" <cctalk@classiccmp.org>
Sent: Sunday, October 29, 2017 6:05 AM
Subject: Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA


> 
> 
> On 29/10/17 06:01, Evan Koblentz wrote:
>>>> I am looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA, so I can write idea/notes 
>>>> when I
>>>> am away from my computer
>>
>> Hi Tom.
>>
>> Welcome to 1997. :-)
>>
>>
>>>> the [Psion 3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_3) and [Psion
>>>> 5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_5) look like good 
>>>> options,
>>>> but i read about the hinge/screen issues
>>>>
>>>> I am leaning more towards the Psion 5 because of the easy of getting
>>>> accessories,
>>>> but it has more things to break
>>>>
>>>> but I am wounding about other options?
>>>
>>> "Wondering"? :-)
>>
>>
>> Tom - Here's the dilemma. The pocket-sized DOS computers (HP-200, 
>> Atari Portfolio, etc.) are too small for their keyboards to be useful. 
>> The larger ones (all the Windows CE stuff that Liam mentioned, along 
>> with the awesome Psion Series 7/Psion Netbook) have good keyboards and 
>> screens, but they're fragile and kind of exotic for modern purposes.
>>
>> For me, the solution is modern produts. I use a high-end Android 
>> smartphone and a low-end Chromebook. Either one is excellent when I 
>> need a quick/simple note-taking device. With the phone I use the 
>> "Google Keep" app for quite notes/lists. With the Chromebook I use an 
>> offline app just called "Text" because it's extremely fast and has 
>> good options.
> I want something that has anti-procrastinate features (no internet, no 
> videos, no mp3s, etc),
> long battery life (40+ hours),
> easy replaceable batteries
> 
> PS: I am adding it to my "off-line" gobag also

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[tom sparks via cctalk]

On 29/10/17 06:01, Evan Koblentz wrote:
I am looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA, so I can write idea/notes 
when I

am away from my computer


Hi Tom.

Welcome to 1997. :-)



the [Psion 3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_3) and [Psion
5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_5) look like good 
options,

but i read about the hinge/screen issues

I am leaning more towards the Psion 5 because of the easy of getting
accessories,
but it has more things to break

but I am wounding about other options?


"Wondering"? :-)



Tom - Here's the dilemma. The pocket-sized DOS computers (HP-200, 
Atari Portfolio, etc.) are too small for their keyboards to be useful. 
The larger ones (all the Windows CE stuff that Liam mentioned, along 
with the awesome Psion Series 7/Psion Netbook) have good keyboards and 
screens, but they're fragile and kind of exotic for modern purposes.


For me, the solution is modern produts. I use a high-end Android 
smartphone and a low-end Chromebook. Either one is excellent when I 
need a quick/simple note-taking device. With the phone I use the 
"Google Keep" app for quite notes/lists. With the Chromebook I use an 
offline app just called "Text" because it's extremely fast and has 
good options.
I want something that has anti-procrastinate features (no internet, no 
videos, no mp3s, etc),

long battery life (40+ hours),
easy replaceable batteries

PS: I am adding it to my "off-line" gobag also

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[devin davison via cctalk]

If you are interested I have a HP jornada 680 with the charger and the
serial cable. I used it as a serial terminal until I replaced it with
a netbook.

I have not used it in a while, when you need something compact with a
real keyboard, it gets the job done.

--Devin

On Sat, Oct 28, 2017 at 4:01 PM, Evan Koblentz via cctalk
<cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:
>>> I am looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA, so I can write idea/notes when
>>> I
>>> am away from my computer
>
>
> Hi Tom.
>
> Welcome to 1997. :-)
>
>
>>> the [Psion 3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_3) and [Psion
>>> 5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_5) look like good options,
>>> but i read about the hinge/screen issues
>>>
>>> I am leaning more towards the Psion 5 because of the easy of getting
>>> accessories,
>>> but it has more things to break
>>>
>>> but I am wounding about other options?
>>
>>
>> "Wondering"? :-)
>
>
>
> Tom - Here's the dilemma. The pocket-sized DOS computers (HP-200, Atari
> Portfolio, etc.) are too small for their keyboards to be useful. The larger
> ones (all the Windows CE stuff that Liam mentioned, along with the awesome
> Psion Series 7/Psion Netbook) have good keyboards and screens, but they're
> fragile and kind of exotic for modern purposes.
>
> For me, the solution is modern produts. I use a high-end Android smartphone
> and a low-end Chromebook. Either one is excellent when I need a quick/simple
> note-taking device. With the phone I use the "Google Keep" app for quite
> notes/lists. With the Chromebook I use an offline app just called "Text"
> because it's extremely fast and has good options.

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Evan Koblentz via cctalk]

I am looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA, so I can write idea/notes when I
am away from my computer


Hi Tom.

Welcome to 1997. :-)



the [Psion 3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_3) and [Psion
5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_5) look like good options,
but i read about the hinge/screen issues

I am leaning more towards the Psion 5 because of the easy of getting
accessories,
but it has more things to break

but I am wounding about other options?


"Wondering"? :-)



Tom - Here's the dilemma. The pocket-sized DOS computers (HP-200, Atari 
Portfolio, etc.) are too small for their keyboards to be useful. The 
larger ones (all the Windows CE stuff that Liam mentioned, along with 
the awesome Psion Series 7/Psion Netbook) have good keyboards and 
screens, but they're fragile and kind of exotic for modern purposes.


For me, the solution is modern produts. I use a high-end Android 
smartphone and a low-end Chromebook. Either one is excellent when I need 
a quick/simple note-taking device. With the phone I use the "Google 
Keep" app for quite notes/lists. With the Chromebook I use an offline 
app just called "Text" because it's extremely fast and has good options.

Re: looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[Liam Proven via cctalk]

On 28 October 2017 at 12:03, tom sparks via cctalk
<cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:
> I am looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA, so I can write idea/notes when I
> am away from my computer
>
> the [Psion 3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_3) and [Psion
> 5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_5) look like good options,
> but i read about the hinge/screen issues
>
> I am leaning more towards the Psion 5 because of the easy of getting
> accessories,
> but it has more things to break
>
> but I am wounding about other options?

"Wondering"? :-)

There were a few classics. IME the Psion 5/5mx keyboard was the best
by a country mile, but they're old and fragile now.

HP 200LX.

http://ktgee.net/post/100483254827/hp-200lx-review-an-ibm-pc-xt-in-your-pocket

HP Jornada 720 or 728, possibly the ultimate ARM PocketPC devices.

http://ktgee.net/post/99630645047/hp-jornada-720-review-hps-last-palmtop

NTT Docomo Sigmarion 3:

http://www.hpcfactor.com/reviews/hardware/ntt-do-co-mo/sigmarion-3/

Late-model NEC MobilePro, e.g. 900C:

https://www.revolvy.com/main/index.php?s=MobilePro_type=topic

The GDP Pocket is a sort of modern equivalent and is actually on sale now:

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/gpd-pocket-7-0-umpc-laptop-ubuntu-or-win-10-os-laptop--2#/

The Gemini PDA looks more Psion-like -- the GDP is really just a very
small miniaturised laptop -- but it's not ready yet.

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/gemini-pda-android-linux-keyboard-mobile-device-phone#/


-- 
Liam Proven • Profile: https://about.me/liamproven
Email: lpro...@cix.co.uk • Google Mail/Talk/Plus: lpro...@gmail.com
Twitter/Facebook/Flickr: lproven • Skype/LinkedIn/AIM/Yahoo: liamproven
UK: +44 7939-087884 • ČR/WhatsApp/Telegram/Signal: +420 702 829 053

looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA

[tom sparks via cctalk]

I am looking at buying a pocket PC / PDA, so I can write idea/notes when 
I am away from my computer


the [Psion 3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_3) and [Psion 
5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psion_Series_5) look like good options,

but i read about the hinge/screen issues

I am leaning more towards the Psion 5 because of the easy of getting 
accessories,

but it has more things to break

but I am wounding about other options?